Arthur Temple College of Forestry & Agriculture, Stephen F. Austin State University
Jessica L. Glasscock
Arthur Temple College of Forestry & Agriculture, Stephen F. Austin State University
Analysis of research trends in the Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society using data mining of annual meeting programs
The Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society (TCTWS), established in 1965, has long served as a cornerstone for wildlife science and management in the state. The Chapter promotes the profession, disseminates scientific information, and advocates for the integration of sound biological data into wildlife policy and decision-making. For decades, the annual meeting has been a central venue for sharing research, exchanging ideas, and fostering collaboration among scientists, managers, and institutions across Texas. Examining the evolution of the knowledge presented at these meetings provides valuable context for identifying emerging topics, shifting priorities, and long-term trends in wildlife conservation across the state. In this study, we apply text-analysis and data-mining tools to the abstracts submitted to recent TCTWS annual meetings. We characterize historical research trends in terms of focal taxa, ecological and management topics, and analytical approaches. Additionally, we quantify and describe the collaborative network among academic, governmental, and non-governmental institutions participating in the meetings. This work aims to provide an updated, data-driven perspective on how research themes and institutional collaborations have evolved within the TCTWS community. By documenting these patterns, we highlight new directions and persistent priorities as the Chapter continues to advance wildlife science and conservation in Texas.